JEDDAH: Dr. Dina Altayeb, a seasoned triathlete, is on a mission to conquer the world of sports, one race at a time.
Her recent participation in the iconic Challenge Roth in Germany in July is just the first stop on a busy racing schedule that will take her to Canada, Spain, and ultimately, the 70.3 Ironman Championship in New Zealand.
Speaking about her Challenge Roth participation, Altayab called it an incredible experience.
Beyond her personal accomplishments, Dina Altayeb is passionate about the increasing participation of women in sports within Saudi Arabia. (Supplied)
“The atmosphere was electric, and the support from the crowd was overwhelming. It’s a race that truly lives up to its reputation. It includes a 3.8 km swim, a 180 km bike ride, and a 42 km marathon run, known for its great organization. It’s a commitment, requiring a nine-month training plan.”
Altayeb, who is a periodontist and implantologist with over two decades of experience, shared the welcoming and enthusiastic German culture at Challenge Roth, a race that had been on her bucket list for years.
“The community in Roth embraces the race wholeheartedly. It’s truly a town-wide event,” she said.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Dr. Dina Altayeb is a periodontist and implantologist with over two decades of experience.
• Her ultimate goal is the 70.3 Ironman Championship in New Zealand in December.
• She plans to continue mentoring aspiring Saudi athletes, sharing her experience and helping them excel in athletics.
While the language barrier posed a minor hurdle, Altayeb was able to effectively communicate with the locals, demonstrating her adaptability and resourcefulness.
With a busy racing schedule ahead, Altayeb is focused on her upcoming events in coming months.
Altayeb plans to continue mentoring aspiring Saudi athletes, sharing her experience and helping them excel in athletics. (Supplied)
“I aim to build my fitness steadily through smaller events leading up to my A races,” she said, outlining her strategic approach. “The Ironman Canada is a sentimental race for me, being my starting point in 2005. This year will be its last in Penticton, and I want to embrace the memories,” she added.
However, her ultimate goal is the 70.3 Ironman Championship in New Zealand in December. “Qualifying for this race was a dream come true. New Zealand is a stunning country, and I can’t wait to experience the race there,” said Altayeb. She plans to arrive early in New Zealand to acclimate to the time zone, research the weather, and familiarize herself with the terrain, showcasing her dedication to thorough preparation.
Beyond her personal accomplishments, Altayeb is passionate about the increasing participation of women in sports within Saudi Arabia.
“It’s truly inspiring to see the empowerment of women and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Sports bring happiness, a healthy mind and body, and ultimately, contribute to a more productive society,” she said. “My future goal in triathlon is to continue to compete, striving to be a better athlete every day while achieving a healthy balance between training, work, and family.”
With a strong message for young Saudi women aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Altayeb concluded: “Take the first step, commit to your goals, and embrace your passion. There has never been a better time to be involved in sports.”
Altayeb plans to continue mentoring aspiring Saudi athletes, sharing her experience and helping them excel in athletics.
She has completed 22 full Ironman races and over 100 races in total. She holds the distinction of being the first Arab female and Saudi national to qualify and compete in the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii, a feat accomplished in 2018, 2019, 2022, and 2023.
Altayeb is also the first Saudi to qualify and compete in the Half Ironman Championship multiple times, paving the way for other Saudi women in sports.
